GroceriesReview.co.uk provides independent reviews and recommendations. Some pages contain affiliate links to Amazon.co.uk, and we may earn a commission when you make a qualifying purchase at no extra cost to you.
Gherkins are a small but high-impact pantry item: the right jar gives crunch, balanced acidity, and flavour that lifts sandwiches, burgers, and salads.
UK shelves now range from classic malt vinegar styles to sweeter continental picks and large catering jars. This guide focuses on what actually helps you choose quickly.
🥒 Quick Picks (Decision Shortcuts)
- Best overall: Opies Cocktail Gherkins (malt vinegar style)
- Best budget: Large catering jars (e.g. dill gherkins 2-2.5kg formats)
- Best for burgers & sandwiches: Kühne Sandwich Gherkins (pre-sliced)
- Best ‘cleaner ingredient’ style: Simple dill gherkins with short ingredient lists (no added sweeteners where possible)
How we judged these (criteria-first)
- Crunch & firmness – stays crisp after opening; no soft centres.
- Pickling base – malt vinegar (UK classic), spirit vinegar, or brine/dill; affects sharpness vs. freshness.
- Sweetness level – from sour/dill to sweet-and-sour; impacts burger vs. cheese pairing.
- Size & cut – whole cocktail, cornichons, or pre-sliced for convenience.
- Ingredient simplicity – shorter lists are easier to work with for everyday use.
- Jar size & value – small jars for occasional use vs. large tubs for frequent sandwiches.
- Versatility – works across ploughman’s, burgers, salads, and snacking.
Ranked picks
1) Opies Cocktail Gherkins (malt vinegar)
Best for: Traditional UK flavour (ploughman’s, cheese boards)
Why it’s good
- Malt vinegar base gives a rounded tang that pairs naturally with cheddar.
- Consistent small size and firm bite for easy snacking.
- Widely seen in UK shops, making it a reliable default.
Trade-off
- Less crisp “fresh” note than dill styles; flavour leans more savoury than bright.
How to use
- Chop into potato salad for a gentle acidity.
- Serve whole with cold cuts and cheese.
Substitution
- Any malt vinegar gherkin or classic British-style pickled cucumber.
2) Large Dill Gherkins (2-2.5kg catering jars)
Best for: Frequent sandwich makers, meal prep
Why it’s good
- Dill brine gives a clean, sharper bite than malt vinegar.
- Larger jars offer better value per 100g for regular use.
- Typically firmer crunch, ideal for slicing.
Trade-off
- Bulky jar; needs fridge space once opened.
How to use
- Slice lengthways for burgers or wraps.
- Dice into tuna or egg mayo for extra texture.
Substitution
- Any “dill pickles” or “cornichons in brine” in multipack or catering size.
3) Kühne Sandwich Gherkins (pre-sliced)
Best for: Quick burgers and sandwiches
Why it’s good
- Pre-sliced saves prep and keeps portions consistent.
- Balanced sweet-tangy profile works with beef and chicken.
- Even slices reduce waste and speed up assembly.
Trade-off
- Slightly softer than whole gherkins; less control over thickness.
How to use
- Layer straight from jar into burgers.
- Add to toasties for instant acidity.
Substitution
- Any “sandwich slices” or “burger pickles” format.
4) Sweet & Crunchy Gherkins (snacking style)
Best for: Snacking or balancing salty foods
Why it’s good
- Noticeable sweetness softens acidity, making them easy to eat on their own.
- Often uniform, glossy texture with good crunch.
- Works well with charcuterie where you want contrast.
Trade-off
- Can be too sweet for classic British pairings like ploughman’s.
How to use
- Serve alongside cured meats.
- Chop into slaws for a sweet-tang lift.
Substitution
- Look for labels like “sweet gherkins” or “sweet & sour pickles.”
5) Cornichons (small, sharp, French-style)
Best for: Cheese boards and richer dishes
Why it’s good
- Smaller size delivers intense, sharp acidity.
- Cuts through fatty foods like pâté or brie.
- Typically firm and crisp.
Trade-off
- More acidic; not ideal if you prefer mild flavours.
How to use
- Serve whole with cheese.
- Finely chop into dressings for extra punch.
Substitution
- Any extra-small gherkin with a sharper vinegar profile.
How to choose (by shopper type)
- Everyday sandwich maker: Go for dill gherkins (larger jars) → better value and cleaner bite.
- Classic British tastes: Choose malt vinegar gherkins → softer acidity for cheese and cold cuts.
- Quick meals: Pick pre-sliced jars → no prep, consistent layers.
- Snacking or sharing boards: Try sweet gherkins or cornichons → either mellow or sharply contrasting.
Availability & practical swaps
- Most UK supermarkets stock malt vinegar and sweet gherkins in standard jars (around 300-700g).
- Dill styles and larger jars are commonly found online or in wholesale-style ranges.
- If a specific brand isn’t available, match by pickling base (malt vs dill) and cut (whole vs sliced), these matter more than brand.
FAQs
Are gherkins the same as pickles in the UK?
In UK usage, “gherkin” usually means small pickled cucumbers, while “pickles” can be broader.
Which gherkins are best for burgers?
Dill or sliced gherkins give the cleanest contrast and easiest layering.
Why do some gherkins taste sweeter?
They’re made in a sweet-and-sour brine with added sugar.
Do I need to refrigerate after opening?
Yes, most jars state refrigerate after opening to keep crunch and flavour.
What size jar should I buy?
Occasional use: 300-700g. Frequent use: 1kg+ or catering jars for value.
What should I check on the label?
Look at vinegar type, sugar level, and additives to match your taste preference.
Conclusion
For most UK shoppers, the safest pick is a malt vinegar gherkin for classic uses or a dill gherkin for everyday sandwiches. Focus on crunch, pickling base, and jar size, those three factors will get you the right result quickly without overthinking the brand.